Why might horses need physiotherapy?

We often hear of people getting a physio in to look at a horse, or a pony being referred for physio. But what is it? Why is it needed? What’s the law surrounding it? Read on for the answers!

Physiotherapy involves assessing the ability of the body to move and perform physical activity. It includes looking at joint mobility, muscle size and strength, coordination, balance and the ability to perform certain tasks. The physiotherapist’s aims are to reduce pain and swelling and improve movement and function of the patient. They use a number of different techniques, including massage, hot and cold treatments, hydrotherapy, laser, myofascial release, joint mobilisations and acupuncture, and use exercises to increase range of motion, strengthen muscles and improve balance and coordination.

Which horses need physiotherapy?

Competition horses

These horses will be putting a lot of strain on their body due to the high intensity work that they are doing. Especially if they are at a high level of competition. Just like a human athlete, regular physiotherapy should be carried out to ensure that they are in peak physical fitness; it can help improve performance, prevent injury, and enhance mobility and suppleness, being important not only during peak training, but also during rest and recovery periods. 

Routine check-ups

It’s not only the elite athletes that need physiotherapy. Carrying out a routine assessment is sometimes recommended for all horses, helping to detect small problems early. Ensuring that your horse is pain free and has a good range of movement is important to allow them to live a happy and healthy life, enabling them to do the work that is required of them. In most cases a routine physiotherapy assessment is recommended every 6-12 months. However, if your horse has a history of musculoskeletal problems, they may require more